Contenders: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to individuals or teams that have a significant chance of winning in a competition or achieving something notable.

• The young boxer was one of the top contenders for the world championship.
• This year's movie contains many talented contenders for the best picture award.

General term for individuals or groups competing against each other in any field, including business, sports, or academics.

• There were over 50 competitors in the annual marathon.
• The company has many competitors in the tech industry.

Used when referring to opponents in a competition who have a history of competing against each other, often with some tension or emotional backdrop. Can carry a slightly negative or intense connotation.

• The soccer teams have been rivals for decades.
• In the business world, these two companies are fierce rivals.

Often used in sports or other competitive fields to describe those who are attempting to dethrone the current champion or leader.

• The tennis star faced a fierce challenger in the final match.
• New businesses are often challengers to established companies in the industry.

Usually used in competitive settings such as sports, contests, or political elections to describe those who have a good chance of winning.

• The top contenders for the championship will face each other in the finals.
• Several contenders are vying for the mayoral position in the upcoming election.

Commonly used to refer to individuals who have been formally entered into a selection process, such as job applicants, political election nominees, or participants in competitions.

• The company interviewed several candidates for the manager position.
• The election candidates presented their platforms during the debate.

Often used in more formal or professional settings to describe individuals who are ambitiously striving for a particular goal, career, or position.

• Numerous aspirants applied for the prestigious award.
• She is one of the leading aspirants for the scholarship.

Informally used to describe individuals who are hopeful and optimistic about achieving a specific goal or position, often used in contexts such as auditions, competitions, or elections.

• The casting call attracted many hopefuls dreaming of movie stardom.
• Young hopefuls gathered at the audition, each eager for a chance to perform on stage.